Estimating the Costs and Benefits of the Smart Grid: A Preliminary Estimate of the Investment Requirements and the Resultant Benefits of a Fully Functioning Smart Grid

Author:

EPRI

Year:

2011

Abstract:

The primary goal of this report, which is a partial update to an earlier report (EPRI 1011001), is to initiate a stakeholder discussion regarding the investment needed to create a viable Smart Grid. To meet this goal, the report documents the methodology, key assumptions, and results of a preliminary quantitative estimate of the required investment. At first glance, it may appear the most obvious change from the 2004 report is the significant increase in projected costs associated with building the smart grid. In actuality, the increased costs are a reflection of a newer, more advanced vision for the smart grid. The concept of the base requirements for the smart grid is significantly more expansive today than it was seven years ago, and those changes are reflected in this report.